‘Just a bunch of hocus pocus’: Visit these 5 filming locations made famous by the Sanderson sisters

Nearly 30 years after it was released, Hocus Pocus is still a must-watch as soon as the leaves start to turn and a chill in the air makes for a string of glorious mornings. This September, the Sanderson sisters return to Salem, Massachusetts, in Hocus Pocus 2, streaming on Disney Plus at the end of the month.

While not every scene in the original film was shot on location (and certainly not in October), sites made famous by the three spooky siblings are easily accessible year round—and you don’t have to wait 300 years for a virgin to light the black flame candle. So grab your broom (or vacuum) and hit the road (“‘tis firm as stone!”) for a fall road trip featuring historic homes and ghoulish graveyards—but don’t be afraid, it’s all just a bunch of hocus pocus.

1. Old Burial Hill Cemetery

Founded in 1638, Old Burial Hill Cemetery is located just south of Salem in Marblehead, Massachusetts. This historic burial ground is where Max first runs into the quintessential ‘90s bullies Jay and Ernie (“Ice”). Though most of the nighttime scenes were filmed on a soundstage, the daytime scenes were shot on location and you can still find some of the tombstones featured in the movie. Old Burial Hill is one of the oldest cemeteries in the U.S., and sits, very literally, on top of a hill with breathtaking harbor views. The intricate stone carvings of winged cherubs, skulls and crossbones, and other macabre symbols are remarkably preserved.

2. Salem Pioneer Village

The Sanderson’s sisters’ cottage is located in Salem Pioneer Village, a 10-minute drive from downtown Salem. Built in 1930, the first living history museum in the U.S. is home to dugouts, wigwams, thatched roof cottages, medicinal gardens, and a blacksmith shop.

3. 4 Ocean Avenue

Not far from the Old Burial Hill Cemetery—just after you cross into Salem proper—is Max and Dani’s house. Located at 4 Ocean Avenue, the house is instantly recognizable by its cupola and looks pretty much exactly the same today as it did in the movie. It’s in a good location to stop and take a quick photo, and you likely won’t be the only fans doing so. Just remember this is a private residence, so be respectful.

4. Old Town Hall

Salem’s Old Town Hall is the site of the epic Halloween party in which Better Midler sings “I Put A Spell on You” while doing just that to the clueless guests in attendance. The oldest surviving municipal structure in the city is still a public hall, hosting farmers markets, fashion shows, fundraisers, parties, weddings, and more.

5. The Ropes Mansion

Allison’s house is also in Salem proper, located very close to the Witch House. Known as the Ropes Mansion, the beautiful Georgian-style home was built in 1727 and is currently owned by the Peabody Essex Museum. Only the exterior was used in the movie and the garden is open to the public 365 days a year, from dawn to dusk, at no charge (dogs are welcome).